A psychoeducational programme for caregivers of people with intellectual disability within the Western Cape

Abstract

In the Western Cape, 98% of people living with intellectual disability are being taken care of by caregivers. These caregivers often sacrifice their own aspirations in their devotion to the person living with intellectual disability - with little, to no, monetary remuneration and recognition. Often, they neglect themselves emotionally, as well as physically, and this could lead to burnout and depression. In this study, the researcher seeks to understand the issues that could lead to caregiver distress and to develop a solution in the form of a targeted psychoeducational programme for caregivers.

A mixed-methods research approach was used in the study - a combination of quantitative research and qualitative research approaches. More specifically, applied intervention research was utilised since the concern of the study is to induce a practical change in a troublesome situation. The two theoretical frameworks that guide this study are the biopsychosocial model and the strength-based approach.

The research approach to this study was rooted in the mixed-methods research approach, as the researcher collected both numeric and text information. The researcher applied the embedded mixed-methods design, which is a variant of the mixed-methods research approach. Twenty-five (25) participants in the qualitative phase and one hundred respondents for the quantitative phase were selected.

During the qualitative phase, the researcher employed exploratory research to obtain basic information and new insights regarding caregiver distress. During the quantitative phase, the researcher used the pre-experimental design, namely the ‘one-group pre-test post-test design’ that contributed to making valuable interpretations and comparisons regarding the impact and value of the psychoeducational programme. Cognitive behaviour therapy guided by a strength-based approach was used as a practice framework for the development of the psychoeducational programme. The manual was developed out of an in-depth literature review, as well as interviews with the informal caregivers. The psychoeducational programme was conducted with the formal caregivers. The researcher collected data whilst the respondents attended a one-day training programme.

The statistical findings showed that there was an increased level of knowledge after the intervention programme. Furthermore, according to these findings, 99% of respondents indicated that the psychoeducational programme would have a positive impact in alleviating caregiver distress. The research results further suggest that 85% of respondents felt much better equipped to take care of a person with intellectual disability after the training. The results also support the academic literature which found that caregivers of people with intellectual disability are predominantly female.

Based on the results of this research, it can be concluded that the tools presented in the psychoeducational programme empower caregivers in their caregiving capacity. Moreover, the programme is shown to be effective in imparting knowledge on caregiving of people with intellectual disabilities. However, further refinement of the programme is still required.

This knowledge yields important insights for social workers and other health professionals to render relevant intervention programmes, support and resources - not only to the person with intellectual disability but also to his or her caregiver. The study calls for policies and procedures to be put in place to address the plight of caregivers. Additionally, findings from this study reinforce the need to further develop collaboration between social and healthcare service providers and caregivers to enhance the caregiving ability of the latter.